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Speaking as a Canadian,. we see roller hockey as something that kids play in summer.
I live in the largest city in Canada and I cannot remember seeing a roller hockey league or any place that it is played. We do have many year round, 24 hour public arenas, and they are busy all the time. Some industrial leagues play at midnight after they finish work. Summer kids hockey training camps run for 2 weeks at a time .
I can understand places in the US south that would have roller hockey players, because of a lack of actual ice rinks.
As for the actual differences, it would be like comparing little league baseball to MLB. Or local go karts to Formula one.
As someone who did both I think there are 2 major differences:
1. Money... Equipment and even costs to participate in leagues are usually a lot higher for ice hockey than roller. Also on the equipment end, depending on rules in terms of contact (checking allowed?) could minimize equipment needed. Most roller leagues I played in didn't allow checking so I never really needed shoulder pads.
2. Puck/Ball... Depending on the quality of the roller hockey surface factors into whether it's best to use a ball or a puck. It was the main downside for me when it came to roller hockey, but the price was usually right for me so I participated as much as I could.
I'm sure there's better answers out there but for me these were 2 that easily came off the top of my head.
I think the TS is talking about technique, and game tactics. I too am curious about that. It seems learning to rollerblade is harder than ice skating.
And also how does one crossover to the other. Roller is obviously cheaper. You can play on the streets. But I wonder, will it help with you ice hockey.
It's a bit what I was thinking. There aren't big difference. Ice hockey might be better but if far more expensive.
I know of a few guys who have gone off to play ECHL, AHL, and Swiss or Russian Leagues who grew up playing Roller Hockey in FL. Now that ice rinks are FAR more common than they used to be (we have 3 large ones in a 60 mile radius in Orlando) most people are beginning to opt for ice hockey, Street Hockey is taking over the leisure side of outdoor hockey down here if anything.
I know of a few guys who have gone off to play ECHL, AHL, and Swiss or Russian Leagues who grew up playing Roller Hockey in FL. Now that ice rinks are FAR more common than they used to be (we have 3 large ones in a 60 mile radius in Orlando) most people are beginning to opt for ice hockey, Street Hockey is taking over the leisure side of outdoor hockey down here if anything.
roller hockey is a great way to train for ice hockey because it is much much cheaper, and you can get a pickup game going just about anywhere.
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